India transformed into a confident, upwardly mobile nation under PM Modi: NZ Trade Minister (IANS Interview)
Auckland, July 10
India's economic development and inclusive growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been quite transformational and extremely impressive, New Zealand Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay said on Friday.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, McClay said he has witnessed India's progress over the years and described the country's economic journey as remarkable.
"It's been quite impressive. I've been coming to India for many years. In fact, I was looking at trade negotiations almost a decade ago. India today is a transformed nation. It is confident. It is upwardly mobile," he said.
"It has a young population that's becoming educated. India wants to send them around the world to work, to get experience and then bring them home to help continue to grow the economy. It really has been quite transformational and it's extremely impressive," McClay told IANS.
The minister noted that while there is always scope for further progress, the recently concluded India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) provides a strong platform for the two countries to deepen their economic partnership.
"There's always more work to do, but we're so pleased with the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement. New Zealand now, as a partner of India, can work alongside Prime Minister Modi to continue to help develop the economy," McClay said.
He said New Zealand's expertise in agriculture, innovation and agri-technology could contribute significantly to India's development, particularly in enhancing farm productivity and rural incomes.
"Agriculture is an example. A lot of the expertise we have and the innovation and the agri-tech can become available to India. We can help Prime Minister Modi and join in his commitment to increase the earnings of Indian farmers by 50 per cent by 2030. New Zealand now has the ability to play a role in that and make sure it's a success," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the praise, we must remember that real transformation means ensuring benefits reach the poorest. Hope the FTA focuses on small farmers, not just big corporates. 🙏
Transformational indeed! From being considered a developing nation to now being called 'confident and upwardly mobile' by a foreign minister - that's the New India! 🇮🇳
Interesting to hear a Kiwi perspective. I visited India 5 years ago and again last year - the change in infrastructure and digital payments is remarkable. Kudos to India.
The New Zealand minister's words about helping Indian farmers increase earnings by 50% is music to my ears. My uncle in Punjab still struggles with outdated methods. Hope this FTA brings real tech transfer. 🤞
As someone working in agri-tech, I see huge potential. But we need to ensure the FTA doesn't create dependency. India must develop its own technology alongside importing expertise.
'Young population becoming educated and going abroad for experience' - this is so true! My cousin is studying in Australia and plans to return after 2 years. The confidence in our youth today is palpable. 💪
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